The downtown site underwent a major renovation in late 2010 that included a widened staircase, a new front door, restroom modifications and new carpet.

The carpet installed during that project, however, immediately started showing signs of wear and tear, Penner said. Because it came with a five-year warranty, the new carpet will be paid for by the manufacturer at no cost to the city.

The city decided to go ahead and replace the bookshelves now because the site has to be closed and the furniture moved for the carpet work anyway.

Penner said the wooden shelves have been in use since the library opened more than 25 years ago. They have outlived their anticipated 20-year lifespan and some of them have started to buckle.

The city will spend about $280,000 to replace the wood shelves with new steel shelves featuring wood trim.

The old bookshelves will be donated to educational institutions in Baja, Penner said.

During the work, there will be limited access to the adjacent Civic Center Community Rooms and courtyard. That space will be used for storage during the project.

Penner said the library will make efforts to minimize service disruptions. It will extend due dates for books and drop boxes will be available to return library materials.

Some popular books and other checkout items will be transferred to the Mission Branch.

The city’s book mobiles and Oceanside READS Literacy Center on Nevada Street will not be affected. Its e-books and online services will remain available 24/7.